Information
“A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before great men.” – Proverbs 18:16 Welcome to my world of creativity, faith, and purpose. Before I could even talk, I was humming melodies—God gave me music before words. Since then, I’ve been walking a path paved with rhythm, visuals, voice, and vision. This portfolio is a reflection of the gifts I’ve nurtured and the stories I’ve had the honor of capturing, creating, and sharing. Whether I'm behind the camera, behind the mic, spinning music as a DJ/KJ, or designing a brand's first impression—everything I do is about connecting people, lifting spirits, and glorifying God through the arts. 💫 What You'll See Here: Photography: From timeless weddings to candid portraits and vibrant events Videography: Highlights, music visuals, and meaningful community moments Graphic Design: Logos, branding, flyers, and visual storytelling Music & Spoken Word: Songs from the soul, poetic truths, and authentic worship Behind the Scenes: The heart, hustle, and healing behind every project Each section is an extension of who I am—an artist, a servant, a storyteller, and a worshipper. Thank you for taking this journey with me. Let’s build, inspire, and impact—one frame, one verse, one song at a time.
In the Press / Interviews
Featured Interview: Queen Enhancement Women’s Empowerment Event
Queen Enhancement was born out of my commitment to uplift, heal, and activate women into their next level. This event brought together women from all walks of life for empowerment, growth, and authentic sisterhood. I was honored to be interviewed by “Time With Granny,” who captured the heart of the experience and the impact it made on the women who attended.
My Expertise
Clarise Hicks
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Multitalented creative professional with 15+ years of experience across entertainment, digital media, and live performance. Founder of four entertainment-rooted businesses, including Psalms In Service, a faith-based platform promoting clean, purpose-driven content. Skilled in vocal performance, DJ/KJ hosting, photography, videography, songwriting, spoken word, and event production. Passionate about empowering creatives, serving communities, and building immersive experiences through the arts.
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
- Vocal Performance & Free Prophetic Worship
- DJ/KJ Hosting (Live & Virtual Events)
- Photography & Videography
- Graphic Design & Branding
- Songwriting & Spoken Word
- Artist Development & Coaching
- Event Management & Community Engagement
- Faith-Based Creative Direction
ENTERTAINMENT & ENTREPRENEURIAL EXPERIENCE
Founder & Creative Director
Psalms In Service, LLC – Newport News, VA
2019 – Present
- Built a multi-platform entertainment company centered on clean, purpose-driven storytelling.
- Curate shows and content for emerging artists, entrepreneurs, and storytellers in music, comedy, and spoken word.
- Offer DJ/KJ hosting, media production, event curation, and talent development services.
- Led major productions such as For the Love of Funny and Queen Enhancement Retreat.
DJ & Karaoke Host (KJ)
Various Events & Community Functions
2016 – Present
- Provide clean, vibrant entertainment through DJ and karaoke services.
- Create personalized playlists and atmospheres that uplift audiences and enhance events.
- Served weddings, church events, expos, youth rallies, and private parties.
Founder & CEO – EPIC 434
Lynchburg, VA | April 2013 – April 2014
- Launched a creative platform focused on talent development and small business collaboration.
- Hosted performances, showcases, and entrepreneur-led events.
- Featured twice on local television and spotlighted on a local radio station for positive community impact.
Founder – Bully Prevention Through the Arts Program
April 2019
- Designed and led a school-based music and arts program as therapeutic intervention for bullying.
- Facilitated workshops using music, spoken word, and visual arts to promote healing and self-expression.
- Partnered with educators, families, and community leaders to create a safe creative space for youth.
Founder & Host – Sisters Tea 4 the Soul
Lynchburg, VA | February 2008 – 2013
- Created a series of community empowerment teas promoting restoration, inspiration, and unity.
- Hosted guest speakers, faith-based performers, and highlighted local women-owned businesses.
- Expanded to include male participants, breaking social barriers across race, income, and age.
- Featured in local newspapers for building bridges within the community through hospitality and conversation.
Recording Artist & Songwriter
Independent Projects – Nationwide
2000 – Present
- Released original worship album Free Prophetic Worship (2008).
- Reached #1 on local internet radio charts with original songs “Is It the Way” and “To See You.”
- Write, compose, and perform original worship music that blends live prophetic flow with soulful instrumentation.
Photographer & Videographer
Clarise Hicks Photography – Lynchburg & Newport News, VA
2005 – Present
- Specialize in wedding, portrait, and community event photography.
- Produce promotional videos, social media content, and highlight reels for nonprofits and faith-based clients.
EDUCATION & TRAINING
[Sanford Brown College]
[Bachelors of Fine Arts in Digital Media Production] – [2013]
Musical Background & Development
- Choir singer since infancy (Sunbeam Choir)
- Violin and Cello: Achieved 4th chair ranking at regional competitions
- Self-trained ear musician with spiritual discernment and prophetic flow
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
- Habitat for Humanity – Ribbon Cutting Performer
- Local Pageants – Creative Participant & Entertainer
- Mentor & Coach – Young women and aspiring creatives
TOOLS & TECHNICAL SKILLS
- Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Lightroom, Premiere Pro)
- Final Cut Pro, Canva, Pro Tools
- Serato DJ, Virtual DJ Software
- WordPress, Wix, Squarespace
- Nikon, Canon DSLR/Mirrorless Camera Systems
Professional Goals
🎯 1. Expand My Creative Reach
Grow my digital and physical presence as a multimedia artist and host, sharing my gifts with broader audiences across platforms, cities, and communities.
🎯 2. Build a Signature Event Series
Establish ongoing, faith-based, family-friendly events such as showcases, karaoke nights, and live concerts that feature diverse talent and encourage community engagement.
🎯 3. Grow Psalms In Service into a Household Brand
Develop Psalms In Service into a nationally recognized platform for clean, uplifting entertainment, empowering artists and entrepreneurs through mentorship, media, and stage opportunities.
🎯 4. Release New Music & Spoken Word Projects
Record and release new Free Prophetic Worship projects, spoken word pieces, and collaborative works that inspire healing, hope, and restoration.
🎯 5. Serve as a Creative Mentor & Coach
Guide aspiring artists, singers, and creatives—especially women of faith—through workshops, one-on-one coaching, and digital resources that help them find and own their voice.
🎯 6. Collaborate with Nonprofits & Global Missions
Partner with nonprofit organizations and global ministries to bring the arts to underserved communities, combining creativity with outreach and service.
🎯 7. Launch a Branded Product Line
Design a line of branded merchandise or creative tools (journals, devotionals, apparel, templates, etc.) that reflect my message, style, and purpose-driven mission.
Comedy event spotlight
The project that I have been focusing on that I'm most proud of are the comedy events. "What I cherish most is that I never gave up. Even when all I had were broken pieces, I trusted the vision God placed in my heart—and slowly, they came together to form a masterpiece." — Clarise Hicks